Cities and Towns in Tama County, Iowa

Founded on Feb 17, 1843, Tama County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Tama County was formed from Benton County and Boone County. The city of Toledo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 171, Tama County has a population of 16,867 and area of 721 square miles (1,867 km²).

List of all cities in Tama County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Buckingham, IA	50612	319
Chelsea, IA	52215	641
Clutier, IA	52217	319
Dysart, IA	52224	319
Elberon, IA	52225	319
Garwin, IA	50632	641
Gladbrook, IA	50635	641
Green Mountain, IA	50632	641
Haven, IA	52339	641
Lincoln, IA	50652	641
Montour, IA	50173	641
Tama, IA	52339	641
Toledo, IA	52342	641
Traer, IA	50675	319
Vining, IA	52348	641

Major Cities and Towns in Tama County, Iowa

Tama

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 3.14 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,800 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52339
• Latitude: 41.9600° N
• Longitude: 92.5829° W

City Location and History

Tama is located in central Iowa, along the Iowa River in Tama County. It was established in the 1860s, growing alongside the development of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. The city is named after Taimah, a Fox Native American chief who once resided in the region. Tama’s proximity to the Meskwaki Settlement, Iowa’s only federally recognized Native American community, plays a significant role in the town’s history and culture. Over time, Tama evolved into a vibrant agricultural and industrial hub, known for its production of agricultural machinery and food products. Today, the city remains a gateway to exploring the rich Native American heritage of the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tama is part of the South Tama County Community School District, with South Tama County High School serving as the primary educational institution for students. A key landmark in Tama is the Meskwaki Casino and Hotel, located just west of the city on the Meskwaki Settlement, which attracts visitors for gaming, dining, and cultural events. The Lincoln Highway Bridge, a historic structure built in 1915, is another prominent landmark, symbolizing Tama’s connection to America’s first transcontinental highway. The Tama Toledo Aquatic Center and Oak Hill Cemetery are also important community sites, offering recreational and historical experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Toledo

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.15 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,300 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52342
• Latitude: 41.9953° N
• Longitude: 92.5792° W

City Location and History

Toledo, the county seat of Tama County, is located just north of Tama along U.S. Highway 63. Established in 1853, Toledo was chosen as the county seat due to its central location and quickly became a center for county administration and trade. The town grew steadily during the late 19th century, benefiting from its position as a crossroads for travelers and traders in central Iowa. Over the years, Toledo has maintained its small-town charm while playing a key role in the agricultural economy of the region. Its close proximity to Tama has fostered a strong relationship between the two towns, with shared schools, resources, and events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Toledo is also part of the South Tama County Community School District, with the district’s elementary and middle schools located in the town. Major landmarks include the Tama County Courthouse, a beautiful 19th-century building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which continues to function as the center of local government. The Wieting Theatre, built in 1912, is another notable landmark, offering live performances, movies, and community events. The Tama-Toledo Country Club and nearby hiking trails at Otter Creek Lake & Park provide outdoor recreational opportunities, contributing to Toledo’s appeal as a close-knit, family-friendly community.

Dysart

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.57 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,300 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 52224
• Latitude: 42.1725° N
• Longitude: 92.3069° W

City Location and History

Dysart is located in northeastern Tama County, about 20 miles southeast of Waterloo. The town was founded in 1872, following the expansion of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railway through the area. Dysart was named after Joseph Dysart, a state senator who helped secure the establishment of the railroad stop. The town grew rapidly as a center for agriculture and trade, serving the surrounding farming communities. Over time, Dysart developed a reputation for its thriving local businesses, community spirit, and active preservation of its historical character.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Dysart is part of the Union Community School District, with Union Middle School and Union High School located nearby. A key landmark in Dysart is the Dysart Historical Center, which features a collection of buildings and exhibits that preserve the town’s rich history, including a restored railroad depot. Dysart City Park and the surrounding nature trails provide ample recreational opportunities for residents. The town’s vibrant downtown area, with its specialty shops, cafes, and galleries, hosts several annual events, including Dysart’s popular Fourth of July celebration and Old Iron Days, which highlight the town’s agricultural and industrial heritage.

Traer

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.76 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,600 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50675
• Latitude: 42.1939° N
• Longitude: 92.4672° W

City Location and History

Traer is located in the northern part of Tama County and was founded in 1873. The town was named after John W. Traer, a prominent figure in the construction of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railway. Traer quickly became an important grain and livestock shipping center due to its strategic location along the railroad. The town is perhaps best known for its iconic “Winding Staircase,” a unique freestanding iron spiral staircase attached to the front of a historic downtown building, which has become a symbol of the community. Over the years, Traer has maintained its strong agricultural base while fostering a vibrant community life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Traer is served by the North Tama Community School District, with North Tama High School being the primary school in the area. Major landmarks in Traer include the Traer Salt and Pepper Shaker Gallery, home to an extensive collection of salt and pepper shakers from around the world, and the famous Winding Staircase. Taylor Park and the Traer Golf and Country Club offer recreational amenities for residents and visitors. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Traer Winding Stairs Festival, which celebrates the community’s unique history and local culture.

Gladbrook

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.01 square miles
• Population: Approximately 900 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50635
• Latitude: 42.1856° N
• Longitude: 92.7113° W

City Location and History

Gladbrook is located in the northwestern corner of Tama County, about 30 miles west of Waterloo. The town was platted in 1880, shortly after the construction of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. Gladbrook’s early growth was driven by its role as a center for local agriculture, particularly grain and livestock production. Over the years, Gladbrook has preserved much of its small-town charm, with a strong emphasis on community events and agricultural heritage. Today, the town continues to serve as a hub for the surrounding farming communities, offering services, schools, and recreational opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gladbrook is part of the Gladbrook-Reinbeck Community School District, with Gladbrook Elementary School serving the younger students, while middle and high school students attend schools in nearby Reinbeck. The town is home to the Gladbrook Theater, a historic cinema that offers films and live performances, and the Matchstick Marvels Museum, which features intricate models built entirely from matchsticks. The town’s annual Corn Carnival, a multi-day celebration of the region’s agricultural roots, draws visitors from across the state. Gladbrook’s parks and green spaces provide recreational activities for families, making it a welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.